“Working for ACA has been way more than just a job. It has been one of the greatest experiences and honors of my lifetime. I am indebted to all who walked with me on this journey, and I hope that as I exit, I am leaving ACA and the counseling profession just a little better than when I started.”
Category: From the CEO
Monthly column from the ACA CEO
On June 30, I will look back knowing there were many more good days than bad ones. What made the good days so “good” were the people I was blessed to work with at the staff, volunteer, member and leader levels.
Given what society has experienced over the past few years, I truly believe that the work of those who identify as professional counselors has made things much better than what might have been.
Counselors understood the importance of continuing to provide services in whatever way possible during the pandemic. Rather than simply plugging along, you “plugged in” by using technology when necessary so that you could continue helping others.
“With all that is currently going on in the world, I also continue to be in awe of the love shown by so many professional counselors and counselor educators through efforts to improve our communities.”
My hope is that 2022 will allow us to reflect on those things that are so important in life, to value the friendships and family that grace us, and to appreciate the opportunities that present themselves to us in the coming months.
Any column referencing the good news of 2021 would not be complete without mentioning the great work being done by the members of ACA. You learned how to adapt so that you could continue serving as valuable resources and advocates for your clients and students.
When I reflect on what I am thankful for, in addition to my family, I also include the terrific group of staff people who are dedicated to helping make the counseling profession even better.
“… Your ACA is on the move. We have been learning to adapt to the changing needs of professional counselors, counselor educators and graduate students. We do this by asking you what you want. We also do this by hearing directly from you. That is something that will not change. We want to know how we can meet the professional needs that you have.”
With all that we will see students experiencing on K-12 and college campuses this fall, it is clear that mental health professionals working in school settings will be in high demand. Let the staff and leaders at ACA know what you need.